Western’s use of replacement workers a rare ‘hardball tactic,’ labour expert says [Video]

At Western University campus Wednesday, a worker steers a riding lawn mower over the grassy hill that leads up to the iconic University College tower. 

Inside Thompson Arena, another worker drives a resurfacing machine over centre ice ahead of the Mustangs’ hockey season.

In campus parking lots, white heating company vans show workers are getting furnaces ready for cooler weather. 

All typical for a fall day on campus, but also very different. That’s because since a strike began on Aug. 30, the work is being done by replacement workers, not the 330 unionized employees represented by CUPE Local 2361. 

Union representatives have said they’re seeking improvements in wages with many of their members working other jobs to make ends meet. The workers include building caretakers, gardeners, arena operators and other tradespeople.

Chris Yates, vice-president of CUPE Local 2361, said the university’s move to use replacement workers removes a key incentive …